Bismarck, Mandan Both Delay Building New Fire Stations

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Bismarck and Mandan both are delaying building new fire stations, though fire officials say growth in the neighboring cities will dictate their development in the near future.

Bismarck Fire Chief Joel Boespflug says a more centrally located fire station is needed so that response times in the northern part of the city meet national standards.

The city instead will spend $1.7 million for three new fire engines and a practice facility. The facility will be on the 5-acre site the city acquired this year for a future station.

The Bismarck Tribune reports city officials in Mandan cut plans for a new fire hall from the proposed 2016 budget because there's no money available to staff it.

Fire Chief Steve Nardello says growth in northwest Mandan warrants another station.